The Independent advised backing Xander Schauffele for a top-10 finish at the Masters, highlighting his impressively consistent track record at Augusta. Although Schauffele endured a rough start to the 2025 season—only managing T30 at the Sentry, T40 at the Arnold Palmer, and a disappointing 72nd at the Players—he began to rediscover form recently, posting a 5-under final round to seal a T12 at the Valspar Championship. Crucially, his historical performances at Augusta strongly support optimism: five top-10 finishes in six appearances, including a runner-up in 2019, third in 2021, and eighth last year. This consistent record makes him a solid bet despite recent struggles.

The Independent strongly backs Rory McIlroy as Europe's most likely standout at the Masters. While acknowledging a minor elbow concern, the analysis underscores McIlroy's outstanding early-season form on the PGA Tour, including top-20 finishes in all six starts and notable victories at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am and the Players Championship. Furthermore, McIlroy is especially driven to finally claim the elusive Masters title and complete his career grand slam. Even if he comes up short of winning outright, the piece expects McIlroy to find himself among the leaders by tournament's end.

The Independent sees Bryson DeChambeau as the prime candidate to finish as the best among LIV Golf's contingent at Augusta. Despite tough competition—including former Masters champs Dustin Johnson, Sergio Garcia, and Jon Rahm—DeChambeau is highlighted due to his strong recent form, notably placing fifth in the LIV Golf Miami Individual event. The analysis suggests he's finding the rhythm and consistency needed to outperform other LIV golfers on the prestigious Masters stage.